Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre

Engineering Research Institute Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (ERI VIRAC) of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) is a science education center specializing in the implementation of high-quality future research services in the field of space technology and signal processing.

The video was shot by a creative group led by film director Juris Pakalnītis.

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The strategic goal of ERI VIRAC is to become a major science centre in observational radio astronomy and related theoretical astrophysics, a global provider of research in space physics and services in space technology, based on an internationally competitive, balanced, and sustainable team of researchers. Research and services employ an internationally competitive infrastructure for astronomical observations and deep-space communications.


VIRAC operates a radio telescope site in Irbene, equipped with two completely rotatable, parabolic antennas RT-32 and RT-16, as well as a Low-frequency array (LOFAR) station.

Insight into history

  • The Irbene radio antenna complex was founded on June 10, 1967, as a secret Soviet astronomy and communications center to spy on Western communications.
  • VIRAC, was founded by the Latvian Academy of Sciences under the name Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center on July 22, 1994, when the State Commission from the Russian Federation took over from the former Soviet Union, at the time of the transfer, the Russian Federation’s military unit at Irbene, in the Ventspils region (military object “Star”).
  • Two years later, VIRAC was reorganized as a state-owned scientific non-profit organization, a limited liability company.
  • On December 16, 2004, VIRAC was incorporated into the Ventspils University College (now Ventspils University of Applied Sciences – VUAS) as the VUAS Scientific Institute, which was registered on November 25, 2005, in the Register of Scientific Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
  • On March 1, 2010, VIRAC added a second VUAS scientific institute – the Engineering Research Center (IPC), replacing the name of the institute with the current one.
  • On March 18, 2010, the VIRAC as a VUAS unit was re-registered in the Register of Scientific Institutions of the Republic of Latvia.
  • In 2013, the VIRAC became a VUAS unit with its Scientific Council, whose activities are determined by the Senate of the VUAS.
  • In 2016, VIRAC was admitted to the European Radio Astronomy Observation Network (EVN) and Latvia – JIV-ERIC.
  • In 2019, VIRAC became a member of ILT.
  • In 2021, VIRAC telescopes start to be used for practical, non-research purposes.
  • In 2025, VIRAC provides first services to spacecraft missions in faraway space.


  • ERI VIRAC Scientific Council

    • Juris Freimanis (chair), leading researcher
    • Artis Aberfelds, leading researcher
    • Vairis Caune (external, VUAS Faculty of Information Technologies)
    • Juris Kalvāns, leading researcher
    • Matīss Maltisovs, leading researcher
    • Ivars Šmelds, leading researcher
    • Juris Žagars, visiting leading researcher

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics Department

    Galaxy

    Studies of the interstellar medium (ISM) and circumstellar envelopes (CE). The investigations deepen knowledge on the circulation of cosmic matter in our Galaxy and the properties of matter and processes in extreme conditions in deep space. A major VIRAC research direction is observations of galactic masers - laser-like radiation in the radio wavelength range. Natural cosmic masers primarily occur in massive star-forming regions. Masers of methanol CH3OH and excited hydroxyl OH* are regularly monitored and analyzed with VIRAC radio telescopes in single antenna mode, as well as with a single-baseline interferometer consisting of RT-16 and RT-32. Formaldehyde H2CO masers have also been observed. The monitoring is supplemented by mapping of the astrophysical maser sources with the European large-scale radio interferometry network EVN. Theoretical aspects of ISM and CE are addressed by numerical modelling studies in astrochemistry, studying the accumulation of ices on dust grains in starless and star-forming dense interstellar clouds, often observed in the spiral arms of our Galaxy. Prebiotic organic synthesis occurs in these ices that could be essential for the emergence of life on Earth. Hence, we are also interested in the chemical aspects of the formation of stars, starting in dark cloud cores and up to the appearance of a protoplanetary disk. The above major topics are supported by investigations of radiation transfer in the gas-dust CEs of young protostars and evolved asymptotic giant branch stars.


    Solar system. 

    Systematic radio astronomical observations of solar active regions (sunspots and their groups) are performed with the VSRC radio telescope RT-32 in the microwave domain. Solar radiation maps at different frequencies with different (left and right circles) polarizations have been created with the help of self-built instrumentation. Research in solar physics explores the origin of solar wind originating from solar active regions, as well as magnetohydrodynamic waves and oscillations in the hot solar corona. A separate direction studies small solar-system bodies, focusing on comets that are interesting objects for spacecraft missions and are capable of maser emission. This emission is weak, prompting advances in data processing, and requires technological telescope improvements. An emerging field is investigating processes in the Earth's ionosphere, including single-station observations with LOFAR.

     

    High-energy and extragalactic astronomy. Active galaxies include quasars, radio galaxies, Seyfert galaxies, blazars, Markarian galaxies, and other objects with galactic nuclei hosting accreting supermassive black holes. With the VIRAC radio telescope RT-32, the variability of active galaxies has been studied. The characteristic time of variability cannot be significantly longer than the time (about a day) during which a signal traveling at the speed of light can cross the emitting area. Such observations can help to explain the mechanisms of galactic nuclei variability. Other high-energy astrophysical phenomena studied include fast radio bursts, elementary particle physics, and processes in accretion disks around stellar-mass black holes.


    • Juris Kalvāns

    Dr.phys., Leading researcher, Head of department

    juris.kalvans[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Juris Freimanis

    Dr.phys., Leading researcher, assistant professor

    jurisf[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Ivars Šmelds

    Dr.phys., leading researcher

    ivarss[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Jānis Šteinbergs

    Mg.sc.comp., Research assistant, PhD student

    janis.steinbergs[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Gints Jasmonts

    Mg.sc.comp., Research assistant, PhD student

    gints.jasmonts[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Karina Šķirmante

    Mg.sc.comp., Researcher, lecturer, PhD candidate

    karina.skirmante[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile



    • Kristaps Veitners

    Mg.phys., Research assistant

    kristaps.veitners[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Jesus Cazares Montes

    PhD, Visiting leading researcher

    jesus.cazares[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Aija Kalniņa

    Mg.phys., scientific assistant, PhD student

    aija.kalnina[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Boris Ryabov

    Dr.phys., Leading researcher

    borissr[at]venta.lv 

    Scientific profile


    • Dmitrijs Bezrukovs

     Dr.phys., leading researcher

    dmitrijs.bezrukovs[at]venta.lv 

    Scientific profile


    • Vladislavs Bezrukovs

    Mg.sc.ing., Researcher, PhD candidate

    vladislavsb[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Artis Aberfelds

     PhD, leading researcher, postdoc

    artis.aberfelds[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Anete Egliene

    B.sc.phys.,  Astronomy technician

    anete.egliene[at]venta.lv


    • Valery Nakariakov 

    PhD, Visiting leading researcher

    V.Nakariakov[at]warwick.ac.uk

     Scientific profile


    • Ross Burns

    PhD, Visiting leading researcher

    rossburns88[at]googlemail.com

    Scientific profile


    • Dmitrii Kolotkov

    PhD, Visiting leading researcher

    D.Kolotkov.1[at]warwick.ac.uk

    Scientific profile


    • Artem Sukharev

    PhD, Visiting leading researcher

    magister_phys[at]yahoo.com

     Scientific profile


    • Anatolijs Popovs

     Dr.phys., Visiting leading researcher


    Sihui Zhong

    PhD, Visiting researcher

    S.Zhong3[at]exeter.ac.uk

     Scientific profile


  • Electronics and Satellite Technology Department

    The Electronics and Satellite Technology Department (ESTD) specializes in applied engineering research, with a strong focus on energy systems. Our work encompasses the full development cycle—from conceptual design and mathematical modelling to prototype production and patenting of innovative technologies.

    ESTD researchers actively contribute to scientific literature, including the publication of monographs. Complex engineering challenges, such as behaviour of materials under stress, are tackled using advanced numerical modelling techniques.

    Mathematical modelling and software algorithms are applied for solving real-world problems across diverse fields, including smart engineering systems, intelligent building infrastructure, satellite communications, cybersecurity, economics, and medicine.


    • Matīss Maltisovs

    PhD,  Leading researcher

     matiss.maltisovs[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    • Valērijs Bezrukovs

     Dr.sc.ing., Leading researcher

     valerijs.bezrukovs[at]venta.lv

     Scientific profile


    • Viktors Gopejenko

     Dr.sc.ing., Leading researcher

     viktors.gopejenko[at]venta.lv

     Scientific profile


    • Marina Koņuhova

    Dr.sc.ing., Visiting leading researcher

     marina.konuhova[atventa.lv

     Scientific profile


    • Juris Žagars

    Dr.habil.phys., Visiting leading researcher

     juris.zagars[at]venta.lv 

    Scientific profile


    • Manfreds Leontijs Šneps-Šneppe

    Dr.habil.sc.ing., Visiting leading researcher

     manfreds.sneps[at]venta.lv

     Scientific profile


    • Svetlana Polukoško

     Dr.phys., Visiting leading researcher

     svetlana.polukosko[at]venta.lv

     Scientific profile



  • Engineering and Technical Operations Group

    The main tasks of the Engineering and Technical Operations Group (ETO):

    • Operation control, maintenance, and repair of RT-32 and RT-16 radio telescopes’ kinematic mechanical drive systems. Cleaning, repairing, and painting of the parabolic antenna’s supporting grid element and inspection of their technical condition. Maintenance and repair of RT-32 and RT-16 drive control systems, their operational compliance control, and improvement of functionality.

    • Automation of observations of radio astronomical radiation meeting the requirements of the European VLBI network (EVN). Configuration of field system components; the digitalisation, formatting, storage, and transferring of radio astronomical data. The development of observation procedure scripts and compliance with EVN requirements and provisions. The provision of automated observations of galactic masers and active galactic cores in a single-antenna mode.

    • Operation, control, repair, and reception of RT-32 and RT-16 cryogenic receivers. Maintenance of low-temperature cryostats and liquid He systems. The calibration of radio telescopes’ antenna parameters and receivers. The calibration and development of L-band and S-band receivers.

    • Maintenance of radio telescope complex power supply system. Maintenance, operation control, and technical modernisation of the automated electrical energy storage system established for the continuous operation of RT-32 and RT-16.

    • Maintenance and development of computer hardware and data transmission network. Maintenance, configuration, and repair of radio telescopes’ drive control, receiver control, weather station, and users’ computer systems. The maintenance of data transmission local and global network access devices and data safety systems.

    • Provision of radio telescope operator services. Conducting radio astronomical observations according to the approved observation schedule, signal registration, data compliance control, and data storage. Observations are conducted 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    • Surveillance of Irbene territory. The continuous physical presence of personnel in the Irbene complex, surveillance of the territory, and control of critical infrastructure facilities.

    • Coordination of tourism and visitors. Creating and replenishing the exhibition with additional features. Coordination of excursions, supervision of guides, and accounting of revenue.

    Artūrs Orbidāns

    M.Sc., Acting Head of Department, Electronics Engineer

    arturs.orbidans[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    Dr. Jānis Trokšs

    Dr.phys., Visiting Leading Researcher

    janis.trokss[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    Mārcis Bleiders

    Mg.sc.ing., Electronics Engineer, guest lecturer

    marcis.bleiders[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    Agris Bērziņš

    Mg. oec., Senior Mechanical Engineer

    agris.berzins[at]venta.lv

    Scientific profile


    Tatjana Dāvida

    Technical Specialist

    tatjana.davida[at]venta.lv


    Roksolana Amarova

    Junior Electronics Engineer

    roksolana.amarova[at]venta.lv


    Raitis Raikstiņš

    Senior Specialist

    raitis.raikstins[at]venta.lv


    Arnis Bērziņš

    Technical Specialist

    arnis.berzins[at]venta.lv


    Māra Klausa

    Technical Specialist

    mara.klausa[at]venta.lv


    Roberts Rasmanis

    Astronomy Technician

    roberts.rasmanis[at]venta.lv


    Zigurds Putniņš

    Technical Specialist

    zigurds.putnins[at]venta.lv


    Kristaps Blumbergs

    Junior Electronics Engineer

    kristaps.blumbergs[at]venta.lv


    Rodrigo Laurinovičs

    Junior Electronics Engineer

    rodrigo.laurinovics[at]venta.lv


    Guntis Gailums

    Junior Electronics Engineer

    guntis.gailums[at]venta.lv


    Andrejs Andrievs Dzelme

    Junior Electronics Engineer

    andrejs.dzelme[at]venta.lv


    Lita Bērziņa

    Caretaker

    lita.lapina[at]venta.lv


    Matīss Purviņš

    Developer

    s22purvmati[at]venta.lv


    Ruslans Golubevs

    Developer

    s21golurusl[at]venta.lv


    Kristaps Felzenbergs

    Visiting researcher

    kristaps.felzenbergs[at]venta.lv


    Nansija Jotkus

    Visiting scientific assistant

    nansija.jotkus[at]venta.lv


  • Services

    Observations with VIRAC radio telescopes


    Proposals for the use of the telescopes for scientific and applied (commercial) tasks have to be electronically submitted to VIRAC with the application template.


    Applications for long-term (more than one quarter) work series for the next calendar year have to be submitted by December 1 each year. The decision is announced to the submitters by December 20. Applications for short and medium-term work series have to be submitted quarterly, each year, until December 10, March 15, June 15, and September 15. The decision is announced to the submitters within 10 working days.


    Decisions on awarding or refusing observational time are made by the VIRAC Radio Telescope Time Allocation Commission. The decision of the Commission can be appealed to the VUAS rector within 5 days of the announcement of the decision. Following the “Regulation for employment of VUAS ERI VIRAC radio telescopes”, approved by VUAS Senate on June 21, 2017, a fee is applied for radio telescope employment. The fee may depend on the set of VIRAC services necessary for the proposal. Within the constraints of available budget funds, the cost can be fully or partially waived for the following observation proposals (in priority sequence):

    • observations and other resultative works necessary for the fulfillment of EVN, JIV-ERIC, and other VUAS international commitments;
    • observations and other resultative works in projects funded by the European Union if the outcome is expected to be published in high-impact journals and/or the research is conducted by the scientific personnel of VUAS;
    • observations and other resultative works conducted or led by VUAS ERI VIRAC employees, attracted experts, consultants, if the work is financed by the state budget and/or Ventspils City Council by more than 50 % of the total amount;
    • resultative works for projects and activities that ensure achieving VIRAC strategic aims, contribute new competence, or widen international cooperation;
    • observations and other resultative works for maintaining the VUAS study process;
    • if observations are conducted in the regime of short- or long-base interferometry network, involving telescopes RT-32 and RT-16 simultaneously.

    All data obtained in business-related observations are commercial secrets for at least one year but no longer than five years, and they must not be disclosed to third parties without the customer's consent.



    Computing with a high-performance computing cluster


    Conditions and form of applications for computing tasks with VUAS IE VIRAC High Performance Computing cluster (HPC).

    Applications for HPU use shall be submitted and addressed to the Director of VIRAC and shall be accepted within the following time limits.


    • Applications for long-term computing tasks shall be submitted by 1 December of each calendar year, and the decision shall be taken by 20 December, respectively. That point also corresponds to VIRAC employees who are required to apply for their planned computing tasks for the calendar year.
    • Applications for computing tasks for the following quarter shall be accepted by the 15th of the month following the previous quarter (15 December, 15 March, 15 June and 15 September).

    The application shall be submitted as an electronic .docx, .doc, .odt, or .pdf file, Times New Roman font, character size not less than 10 points. The applicant shall attach a scanned confirmation (.pdf file) with his or her signature on the authenticity of the application. The application fields marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory. If the applicant is not an employee of any organisation, it must be indicated in the “Organization name” field.


    Conditions and application form (in Latvian).



  • Contacts

    • Director

    Mārcis Donerblics

    E-mail: marcis.donerblics@venta.lv


    • Chair of VIRAC scientific council:

    Juris Freimanis, jurisf [at] venta.lv


    • Chair of the VIRAC Radio telescope time allocation commission:

    Juris Freimanis, jurisf [at] venta.lv


    • On scientific astronomical matters, including student works, contact the head of VIRAC Astronomy and astrophysics department:

    Juris Kalvāns, juris.kalvans [at] venta.lv



    Excursions

    Questions about excursions, tour prices, excursion offer, tour times:   +37129230818 



    Office

    9:00 - 17:00

    Administration: +37163629656



    E-mail

    General issues,requests, offers. 

    virac@venta.lv



    VIRAC in Ventspils

    Inženieru street 101,Ventspils, LV-3601

    Phone +37163629656

    E-mail virac@venta.lv



    VIRAC in Irbene

    VIRAC, Ventspils district. Ance parish., Irbene, LV-3601

    Security/Guard +37163656081


  • Excursions

    EXCURSION SEASON AT THE IRBENE COMPLEX ISFROM APRIL 1ST TO NOVEMBER 1ST


    Activities included in the excursion:

    • A walk AROUND radio telescope RT-32 in the territory of Irbene
    • RT – 8 tower viewing and expositions about RT – 32 and RT – 16 during the USSR
    • Viewing the “old” RT – 16 antenna next to RT – 8
    • Walk through an underground tunnel

    Book excursion at least 3 days before visiting!


    Tourist service tariff:

    • Excursion for a group of less than 10 people - 100 EUR

    Individual prices (for a group of more than 10 people):

    • Adults – 12 EUR
    • Students, pensioners – 8 EUR
    • For students, children from 6 years of age – 6 EUR

    If you have decided to visit us send an e-mail to virac@venta.lv or call and apply for an excursion by phone +371 29230818


    Rules to follow in the excursion:

    • Excursion time is around 1,5-2 hours.
    • Excursions are possible only with our guide.
    • Excursions happen after a prior set appointment.
    • Visitors have to follow the instructions of the staff.
    • Visitors should switch off their mobile phones and other devices that broadcast in the radio frequency range or turn them on to “flight mode”.

  • Additional information

    VIRAC is responsible for many of VUAS scientific publications and research projects.


    VUAS publications

    VUAS projects

    VIRAC homepage (currently not updated, actual information is available on https://en.venta.lv/about-science-in-vuas )


Events and Highlights

Career Day 2025

By Rota Rulle • April 23, 2025
On April 9th, Ventspils University of Applied Sciences hosted Career Day 2025 , uniting high schoolers , university students , educators , and employers for a dynamic day of networking and hands-on experiences .

European Union-funded project “Opticon RadioNet Pilot” concludes at Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center (VIRAC)

By Rota Rulle • April 16, 2025
In February of this year, the European Union-funded project “Opticon RadioNet Pilot” No 101004719 (ORP) was successfully concluded at the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center (VIRAC), part of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences, located in Irbene, Latvia. VIRAC is known for its two large radio telescopes – including a 32-meter dish, one of the largest in Northern Europe – which are used to study radio signals from cosmic objects. Given the scale and complexity of space, collaboration has always been essential, and VIRAC has long been involved in international and EU-funded projects. Since 2009, VIRAC has participated in a series of projects under the “RadioNet” umbrella, aimed at strengthening radio astronomy research across Europe by increasing access to facilities, advancing technology, encouraging institutional collaboration, and supporting the growth of young scientists. The ORP project represented the next step, merging the efforts of radio and optical telescope communities into a single coordinated program. By integrating facilities observing across the radio, sub-mm, infrared, and optical wavebands, ORP enabled seamless access for European researchers to an unparalleled array of observatories. With a total budget of €15 million, of which €60,000 was allocated to VIRAC and Ventspils University, the project supported VIRAC’s active participation in multiple scientific and collaborative activities. Among these activities, VIRAC regularly participates in EVN (European VLBI Network) observation sessions, held three times a year, as well as in monthly real-time e-VLBI sessions and EVN-lite observations, which serve as supplementary components to the main EVN observation programme. Participation in these activities has been actively supported and facilitated through the ORP (Opticon RadioNet Pilot) project. Additionally, VIRAC researchers are actively involved in the international scientific community, regularly attending major conferences and participating in training programs and exchange visits at leading European observatories. Activities such as transnational access to European ESFRI and ERIC research facilities, training programs, and support for the astronomical community will continue through one of the most significant outcomes of the ORP project—ACME (Astrophysics Centre for Multi-Messenger Studies in Europe). This new initiative aims to integrate not only optical and radio astronomy but also other branches of astrophysical observation, including gravitational waves, neutrinos, and cosmic rays, fostering a truly multi-messenger approach to astronomy. This project has received funding from the European Union's research and innovation programme HORIZON 2020 under grant agreement No 101004719. Scientific Project Coordinator: Ivars Šmelds ( ivars.smelds@venta.lv ) Administrative Project Manager: Ieva Kozlova ( ieva.kozlova@venta.lv )

VUAS and VIRAC representatives will participate in the largest physics festival in the Baltics

By Rota Rulle • April 3, 2025
At the Elektrum Physics Festival, which will take place on April 12 at the ATTA Center in Riga, young people will be invited to engage in exciting physics discovery activities and explore future professions in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The final of the FIZMIX school knowledge and physics competition will be held for the 30th time during the festival. This will be the fifth edition of the festival, and this year's theme is "Mission: Future." Throughout the day, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, visitors of all ages can participate in creative workshops and experiments that will test both intellectual and physical skills. The event will feature engaging activities presented by science centers from Latvia and Estonia, universities, extracurricular education institutions, companies, and entertainment centers. Each year, the festival is widely attended, with young people and families appreciating the meaningful way to spend their time—last year, it attracted around 4,000 visitors. Science centers and universities, including Ventspils University of Applied Sciences and Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center, will offer various educational and interactive activities. Program: 11:00 – 11:25 Opening Ceremony 11:25 – 12:15 Discussion: "STEM Sciences: Future Professions" 12:25 – 14:00 Competitions, experiments on stage, activities, and prizes 14:00 – 14:15 Honoring long-time teachers 14:15 – 14:30 Announcement of FIZMIX competition finalists 14:40 – 15:40 FIZMIX competition final 15:50 – 16:10 FIZMIX competition awards ceremony 16:10 – 16:50 Concert: Fiņķis & Patrisha Organized by AS "Latvenergo," the FIZMIX knowledge competition and Elektrum Physics Festival aim to spark young people's interest in exact sciences, demonstrate how theoretical knowledge can be applied in practice, and encourage students to consider careers in STEM fields.

New Postdoctoral Project in Astronomy Launched at VUAS

By Rota Rulle • March 3, 2025
On March 3 this year, the Engineering Research Institute “Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre” (VIRAC) of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) launched a research project titled "Revealing the physical mechanism of mass ejection around young massive stars via CH3OH masers" (Project No. 1.1.1.9/LZP/1/24/044). The project aims to significantly contribute to the professional development of VSRC postdoctoral researcher Art Aberfeld by enhancing his skills, establishing new academic connections, and conducting world-class fundamental research in astrophysics. The research involves working with big data and applying advanced numerical models. The project partner is the Astronomical Observatory of Cagliari (OAC) , part of the National Institute for Astrophysics of Italy (INAF) . As part of the initiative, Art Aberfeld will participate in several extended research visits to the partner institution, acquiring new expertise. This will facilitate knowledge transfer from Italy to Latvia, bringing unprecedented competencies to the country, including: Observing and processing radio signals at high frequencies (20–116 GHz), Integrating and interpreting multi-frequency observations, Developing the skills necessary for working with next-generation large-scale radio astronomy instruments. The project will have a positive impact on the RIS3 (Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialization) objectives by strengthening the information technology sector and significantly increasing the scientific capacity of the VIRAC . The scientific goal of the project is to address a fundamental question in massive star formation: how excess angular momentum is transferred from the protostellar disk to outflowing gas and jets, enabling the protostar to grow in mass. Project Details Total cost: EUR 192,336.00 ERDF funding: EUR 163,485.6 Planned outputs: Three high-impact scientific publications and presentations at six international scientific conferences. The research application "Revealing the physical mechanism of mass ejection around young massive stars via CH3OH masers" (No. 1.1.1.9/LZP/1/24/044) is implemented within the framework of project No. 1.1.1.9/1/24/I/001 and is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). This initiative is part of the European Union Cohesion Policy Programme for 2021–2027 under the specific aid objective 1.1.1 “Developing and enhancing research and innovation capacities and the uptake of advanced technologies”, Activity 1.1.1.9 “Postdoctoral research”. Link to Project: https://en.venta.lv/science/projects/Revealing-the-Physical-Mechanism-of-Mass-Ejection-Around-Young-Massive-Stars

Purchase for the radio telescope RT-32 mirror surface adjustment service is planned

By Rota Rulle • February 23, 2025
To increase the reception efficiency of the VIRAC radio telescope RT-32 and the accuracy of the received information, within the project it is planned to adjust the surface of the mirror, which will include the adjustment of each mirror surface fragment to the total surface. The surface of the mirror of the radio telescope consists of several plates, each of which can be adjusted in relation to the total surface, or simply put, the screws on the plates can be tightened or loosened, thus changing their position. Within the project, technical specifications are currently prepared and, in early October, it is planned to announce an open tender for the purchase of RT-32 mirror surface adjustment service. The purchase will also include a microwave holography device to measure the accuracy of the mirror surface before adjusting the mirror surface, as well as later to use this device for the analysis of mirror surface deviations. Following the service, the reception efficiency of the radio telescope and the accuracy of the information received are expected to improve, and such a surface will allow observations over a much wider frequency range, which means more opportunities to participate in radio astronomical observations in both EVN and single antenna modes.

Project DIMD has ended

By Rota Rulle • January 28, 2025
With the last day of 2024, the scientific research project “Desorption of icy molecules in the interstellar medium (DIMD)” ended. It was implemented at the Ventspils University College of Engineering “Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre” and was funded by the Latvian Science Council in its Fundamental and Applied Research Projects programme (project No. lzp-2021/1-0076). In the mid-term project report (2023), we already described the participation of the project participants at several conferences in Latvia and abroad, participation in the international cooperation project LILAC, a popular science article, and, most importantly, the scientific research conducted, which was submitted to the high-level astronomy journal Astronomy & Astrophysics (A&A). “This turn of events left the participants in a poor situation. Before the last year of the project, none of the four planned major studies had been completed or at least submitted to an A&A-level journal.” Several assumptions had to be used in the submitted study, in particular, about the collision speed at which ice chunks break off in collisions between interstellar dust grains. The results of such collisions had been studied in recent calculations by a group of scientists at the University of Kaiserslautern, Germany. From their published works, we concluded that our assumptions were wrong because at the moment of collision the ice mantle behaves like a liquid that deforms, rather than breaking into fragments like a crystal. Consequently, our submitted publication did not contain scientifically valid results and was eventually withdrawn. This turn of events left the participants in a poor situation. Before the last year of the project, none of the four planned major studies had been completed or at least submitted to an A&A-level journal. On the other hand, the work carried out was not without result – we had a highly developed astrochemical model at our disposal. Practically any investigation (except for those based on incorrect assumptions) could provide new, publishable scientific results with this program. At the end of 2023, the model was further improved and the race against time until the end of the project could begin! In the first [1] of the four major research studies conduced during 2024, we examined the general results of the model – the calculated amount of various solid (ice) and gas molecules in an interstellar nebula. This included organic matter, which was a special focus in the project. In the second publication [2], we explained the evaporation of organic matter from frosted dust near a newborn star. Perhaps the most interesting was the third paper, which examined the path of dust from a cold stellar envelope to the planet-forming disk around the young star. Research showed that two types of dust end up in the disk – cold and icy, and slightly warmer, but completely bare grains. The coagulation of such dust into sand, grain, pebble, and increasingly larger-sized clumps started of the formation of planets, including those in our own Solar System. The fourth article was completed with the final bell of the project and studied the origins of interstellar cosmic clouds. All articles were submitted to A&A. The first two have already been published, the third is in press, while the fourth still has the long road of scientific review ahead of it. Other planned works have also been successfully completed. Two smaller articles have been submitted for publication. The first considers the temperature of dust in circumstellar space, while the second addresses the conditions in a cosmic nebula that gravitationally collapses, until forming a newborn star at its centre. The work was explained to Latvian astronomers, interested people, and the public in the scientific conference of the University of Latvia, an article for the popular science magazine Zvaigžņotā debess (Starry Sky), as well as in an interview published in the magazine “Ir” [3]. The work on the project is not over yet – the submitted articles must be brought to publication, and reports are planned for the next (83rd) University of Latvia scientific conference, as well as the Latvian Astronomical Society. This research has been funded by the Latvian Council of Science, project “Desorption of icy molecules in the interstellar medium (DIMD)" No. lzp-2021/1-0076. [1] https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/07/aa50015-24/aa50015-24.html [2] https://www.aanda.org/articles/aa/full_html/2024/12/aa51858-24/aa51858-24.html [3] https://ir.lv/2024/10/16/zvaigznu-putekli/ Photo: Icy interstellar dust with the James Webb Space Telescope Chamaeleon I in the dark cosmic nebula. NASA, ESA, CSA, and M. Zamani (ESA). Science: M. K. McClure (Leiden Observatory), F. Sun (Steward Observatory), Z. Smith (Open University), and the Ice Age ERS Team

Director of VIRAC gives a keynote speech in the Nordic- Baltic Eight (NB8) Cooperation Forum

By Rota Rulle • November 19, 2024
The Director of the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC), Mārcis Donerblics, gave a keynote speech in the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8) cooperation Forum "Europe's Ride to Space - the Role of the Nordic and Baltic States" in Frankfurt. On the day of the event, VIRAC Director met with the Ambassador of Latvia to Germany, Ms Alda Vanaga, as well as with the Honorary Consuls and esteemed colleagues of Iceland, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Denmark and the representatives of German Government. In the evening, Mārcis Donerblics gave a speech on the role and opportunities of Latvia and VIRAC in the development of the European space sector. Donerblics emphasized the achievements of Latvian policy-makers, scientists and engineers in positioning Latvia at the cutting edge of space technology and services, as well as the support of the Nordic countries in this mayor achievement. He stressed the many challenges and opportunities brought about by the emergence of competing programs especially in the Lunar and Deep Space segments as well as those put forth by defense needs in current geopolitical landscape, expressing dedication to strengthening the European Space industry. The next day, the Director of the VIRAC accompanied the Ambassador on a visit to the European Space Agency's European Space Operations Centre (ESA ESOC) in Darmstadt. During the visit, ESA presented its current and future mission plans and the potential for cooperation with Latvia in the light of these plans. Donerblics and ESA experts discussed VIRAC's capabilities and expertise for contributing to ESA’s roadmap and its implementation needs.

30th anniversary of the VIRAC

By Rota Rulle • November 18, 2024
On Friday, 8 November, the 30th anniversary of the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre was celebrated! During the first half of the day, the VUAS hosted a scientific seminar, but the celebrations continued in Irbene with greetings, speeches and antenna demonstrations!

Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre Celebrates 30 Years

By Rota Rulle • November 7, 2024
This year, the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC) celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of continuous activity in the fields of radio astronomy, space technology and communication. VIRAC - a research institute at the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) stands as one of the leading scientific institutions in Northern Europe, specializing in space technology, radio astronomy and large aperture antenna operations. Since its establishment in 1994, VIRAC has grown into a prominent research and technology center that not only conducts internationally recognized scientific research but also contributes to technological innovation and raises Latvia's profile on the global stage. Equipped with world-class radio astronomy facilities — including two large aperture antennas (RT-32 and RT-16), a low frequency antenna array – LOFAR and electronics & RF, signal processing, cryogenics as well as mechanical engineering laboratories and workshops — VIRAC enables high-precision observations that are vital to both Latvian and international scientific communities. VUAS Rector Andris Vaivads reflects on VIRAC’s journey: " Light from the Moon takes 1 second to reach us, from the Sun 8 minutes, from Jupiter on average 45 minutes (the length of an academic hour). The center of our galaxy is 26,000 light-years away. Space is vast and endlessly fascinating! For example, the brightest star in the constellation of Gemini, Pollux, is 33 light-years away. The light we see from Pollux today left the star in 1991, the same year Latvia regained its independence. At that time, many of today's VIRAC scientists and engineers were still in kindergarten or had not yet been born. VIRAC itself was founded in 1994, inheriting the large 32- and 16-meter diameter antennas from the Soviet Army. VIRAC made a huge leap forward, renovating these antennas until 2015. In 2019, VIRAC took another major step forward, adding a football-field-sized LOFAR antenna array. Today, VIRAC is expanding into the fields of defense and deep space communications. All of this progress has been achieved thanks to the selfless and dedicated work of the VIRAC team, as well as the support of the Ventspils City Municipality and the trust of the Latvian Government in the VIRAC team. So much has happened during the 33-year journey of light from Pollux to Earth. Want to find Pollux... or a black hole? Just ask the VIRAC researchers!" Today, the Irbene antenna site is connected to international radio telescope networks. Together with their international colleagues, VIRAC scientists are conducting research on a wide range of topics, from the near-Earth ionosphere, the Sun, and Jupiter, to the farthest reaches of space where star formation occurs, as well as active galactic nuclei, pulsar, maser and other cosmic phenomena observations are being carried out. These studies are based on data collected by the Irbene antenna infrastructure, yet some rely on theoretical and numerical calculations or data from other telescopes, sensors and networks. The Irbene antenna site is truly unique: Extremely low RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) levels , providing cleaner data for scientific research. The largest radio telescope in Northern Europe — the 32-meter RT-32. The presence of multiple radio telescopes at a single location , enabling local interferometric measurements and simultaneous observations in multiple frequency bands and other advantages. Looking to the future , VIRAC aims to connect the large aperture antennas to an international deep space communications network, marking a significant milestone in creating synergies between radio astronomy and space communication industry. The first communication sessions with Lunar space probes and relays are eagerly anticipated. With its world-class infrastructure and dedicated team, VIRAC holds enormous potential for further development. However, the next generation of scientists and engineers will be crucial to realizing this potential in the coming decades. Training and supporting these future experts is a top priority. As VUAS Rector Andris Vaivads emphasizes: "Through Irbene to the stars!"  Mārcis Donerblics, Director of VIRAC , shared his reflections on the center's 30-year journey: "Looking back at the past 30 years of VIRAC, starting from July 19, 1994, when Latvia took over the Irbene antenna complex and, a few days later, founded the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre, I am amazed by the many challenges and milestones that has been faced to transform the antenna site in a globally competitive facility it is today! From taking over, protecting, and maintaining the site, to building utilities, restoring antenna pointing capabilities, renovating, developing, and becoming members of the European VLBI Network (EVN), we have come a long way. We established the LOFAR station, collaborated with the European Space Agency (ESA), and built a partnership with the Swedish Space Corporation (SSC). None of this would have been possible without external support, but, just as importantly, it was the selfless dedication and creativity of our colleagues that allowed us to make the Irbene antenna site based services and science accessible to the Latvian, Baltic, Nordic, European, and global communities. These efforts have also ensured that future generations will have access to these valuable instruments here in Latvia. For all of this, I am immensely grateful and proud."

VIRAC Organises a Workshop for WP5.1 of the RADIOBLOCKS Project Work Package

By Rota Rulle • October 31, 2024
On October 28–29, 2024, the VIRAC hosted a workshop as part of the RADIOBLOCS project, titled "New Science in Radio Astronomy: Applying Cutting-Edge Technology to Enhance the Entire Data Chain, from Receiver to Final Output." The workshop brought together participants from the VIRAC, ASTRON (Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy), and EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne). The main objectives of the workshop were: To establish a detailed plan for the next phases of the project. To agree on deliverables and deadlines for the work packages, as well as to assign responsibilities to the respective institutions. During the workshop, the use of potential GPU technologies for the project was discussed. Optimizing the use of computational resources requires selecting technologies that facilitate efficient communication between processes. The discussions explored several tools capable of improving algorithm performance while streamlining the software development process through optimized process management, eliminating the need for manual development of communication algorithms. A key topic was the evaluation of the DASK framework, an open-source Python library designed for parallel and efficient processing of large datasets. DASK enables computations that surpass the memory or CPU limits of a single machine (see details: https://www.dask.org/ ). Its application is planned for the data processing needs of various interferometric telescope arrays, including the International LOFAR Telescope, the European Extremely Long Baseline Array, the Irbene Single Baseline Interferometer, and the upcoming Square Kilometre Array. The synergy between WP5.1 and other work packages of the RADIOBLOCKS project was also a key point of discussion. The workshop further explored alternatives to the DASK framework, with a focus on Legate, a technology developed to seamlessly replace the popular Python package Numpy while leveraging GPU integration (see details: https://research.nvidia.com/publication/2019-11_legate-numpy-accelerated-and-distributed-array-computing ). Employing multiple frameworks throughout the project could provide valuable insights and recommendations for developing next-generation multi-core software for radio astronomy. A comparative analysis of the technologies discussed during the workshop could serve as the foundation for a comprehensive publication, highlighting the performance of different technologies under various parameters. These activities were conducted as part of the project "New Science in Radio Astronomy: Applying Cutting-Edge Technology to Enhance the Entire Data Chain, from Receiver to Final Output" (RADIOBLOCKS), funded under project No. 101093934.
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